DES MOINES, Iowa —

The Iowa State Fair celebrated the fair's Veterans Day with a parade and concerts on Monday, honoring Vietnam War veterans as grand marshals to mark 50 years since the conflict ended.

Gene Davis, a Vietnam veteran from Des Moines, said, "I am really glad to see the country come together to honor the veterans. It wasn't always that way and it seems like it's really...it is an honor."

He continued, "It was a really tough time in my life at one time, but it's something I always look back on and am I'm proud of."

The celebration included free performances to recognize these special Iowans. The Iowa Military Veterans band performed at the Susan Knapp Amphitheater, and a military tribute concert wrapped up at the Anne and Bill Riley Stage.

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